Elastoplastic properties under nano-microindentation of phosphate glasses doped with rare-earth ions

Abstract

The microstructure and mechanical (elastic and plastic) properties of phosphate glasses (PhGs) doped with rare-earth elements (REEs), namely, Pr, Nd, Sm, Eu, Gd, Dy, Ho, Er, and Yb, have been studied in this paper. The strength parameters of the PhGs and their dependence on the load value modification have been estimated by the depth-sensing indentation method. Three specific stages have been revealed in the deformation process, including nano-, submicro, and microdeformation. It has been assumed that the elastic and plastic properties of PhGs can be associated with the specificity of the internal structure of the glasses.